The United States announced that it is joining the 108 countries and international organizations taking part in the 2012 Yeosu Expo.

The U.S. Embassy said that its pavilion will build upon the expo’s theme of “The Living Ocean and Coast,” and showcase the diversity, spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and commitment to sustainable development of the American people.

The USA Pavilion 2012’s design and day-to-day operation will be led by explorer, environmentalist and social entrepreneur Philippe Cousteau Jr., grandson of Jacques Cousteau.

It will house a 12,000-square foot exhibit featuring the United States’ shoreline through displays and programs that highlight the diverse nature of America’s waters and coastal communities.

Focusing on the themes of diversity, wonder and solutions, the USA Pavilion is expected to reach millions of visitors through a host of technologies and storytelling.

A highlight of the American Pavilion experience for visitors will be interaction with student ambassadors.

In partnership with the University of Virginia, 40 college-aged American student ambassadors proficient in the Korean language will be selected to serve as representatives of the United States, engaging directly with visitors and supporting the operation of the USA Pavilion.

New U.S. Ambassador to Korea Sung Kim said Monday that U.S. participation in the 2012 Yeosu Expo was another important example of its deepening partnership with South Korea.

“Our relationship is more than a security partnership and encompasses many different areas like trade, people-to-people ties and, excitingly, more and more cooperation on issues of mutual concern,” Kim said.

The ambassador made the remarks during a signing ceremony for the U.S.’ participation contract with Yeosu organizing committee chief Kang Dong-suk at the envoy’s residence in downtown Seoul.

Focusing on the themes of diversity, wonder and solutions, the U.S. Pavilion at the Yeosu Expo aims to reach millions of visitors through a host of technologies and storytelling, U.S. organizers said.

“The pavilion will take relations that are so often diplomatic and trade, and create a one-on-one base, making it human and real. This is our opportunity to speak directly to Koreans,” said Philippe Cousteau, the chief spokesperson for the pavilion.

To elevate the U.S.’ involvement in the expo while highlighting its diverse coasts, the Yeosu organizing committee partnered with Cousteau, who is an explorer, social entrepreneur and environmental advocate.

Through its diversity, the pavilion plans to convey the vibrant nature of U.S. life using the voices of its people from coast to coast.

He also said the pavilion would showcase unique elements of U.S. culture and private and public initiatives that they hope will inspire personal action and positive change.

To add a personal touch, 40 college-aged U.S. student ambassadors proficient in Korean will be selected to serve as representatives, engaging directly with visitors and supporting the U.S. pavilion operation, he added.

Cousteau is the grandson of French naval explorer Jacque Cousteau, a filmmaker, scientist, photographer, researcher and inventor of the regulator used in scuba diving.

“With the legacy of my family being such a part of my life, I’m personally grateful to Korea for recognizing the importance of oceans and coast as a life support system of this planet,” Cousteau said.